Paul Mason, 77, a longtime Casa Grande resident, died September 1, 2008 while hospitalized in Scottsdale, Arizona.

A “Celebration of his life” will be held on Saturday, September 6, at 8:30 A.M. at the Paul Mason Sportsplex located on Pinal Avenue and Rodeo Rd in Casa Grande.

Paul was born on June 15, 1931 in Nipinnawasee, CA and lived in Casa Grande his early childhood years later returning to attend Casa Grande Union High School. Prior to graduation in 1949, he played football and was a member of the first Class B State Championship, CGUHS track team, where he was state champion for the 100, 220, 440 yard dashes and anchored the winning relay team. Soon after graduation, he served in the Arizona National Guard and married his high school sweetheart, Joan Thomas. He loved, and was proud of Casa Grande and served 30 years with the Casa Grande Parks and Recreation Board. In addition, he was involved in youth organizations, coaching and officiating athletic teams. He was a life long member of the Casa Grande Elks Club, and participated in other community service organizations and projects. Paul was an avid supporter of his grandchildren’s sports activities and spent many hours on the golf course with his family and friends.

Paul was in the dry cleaning business for all of his adult life and owned and operated Elite Cleaners located on Florence Boulevard in Casa Grande for close to 35 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents George L. & Myrtle Mason, and two sisters Oneta Fortney & Mary Mason. He is survived by his wife Joan, of 58 years, a son George E. “Ernie”, daughters Paula Schroeder & Carrie Walton and his brother George L. Mason Jr. He was blessed with eight grandchildren whom he loved and adored; Lisa, Jonathan, Kara, Ryan, Nick, Bridget, Lexie and Jake. Paul’s love for his family and friends were the most important things in his life. Paul and Joan enjoyed dancing wherever music was played and were always the first on the dance floor and the last to leave.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for memorial contributions to be made to the City of Casa Grande, Paul Mason Sportsplex, to assist in purchasing children’s play ground equipment.